A total of 30 people have died in an ongoing cult war between the Eiye and Black Axe confraternity groups in Edo State.
The most recent act of violence resulted in the death of a vigilante commander named Osagie in the Ekosodin community.
This incident took place at a Keke Napep park along the Benin-Ore express road in the Ovia Northeast local government area.
Osagie’s untimely death caused a great deal of anxiety within the community, leading security networks and community elders to ban the traditional December 31 crossover night service as a response to the seriousness of the situation.
The distressing event occurred just one week after another vigilante commander was killed in the Ogiso community on Christmas Eve.
The increase in violence is a result of the ongoing clash between the confraternity groups.
Police reports indicate that dead bodies have been found in several areas, including Okhoro, Medical Stores, Uwelu, Siloko, and Ebvaeke.
This grim toll is a result of an escalating cult war. The violence began on December 16 when a targeted individual seized the proceeds from an organised Internet scam.
This action led to retaliatory attacks from hoodlums who were searching for their target. In one of these attacks, the target’s mother was reportedly shot.
The violence continued on Christmas Eve, claiming four lives initially and then escalating with more casualties.
The State Police spokesperson, SP. Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed that a significant number of suspected cult members have been arrested.
The Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Dankwara, emphasised the commitment of law enforcement to combat this surge in crime and restore peace and tranquilly in the state.
